APSD Leadership & Learning: GMS students enjoy “game day” at OBU

Goza Middle School teacher David Smith joins the Goza spirit squad in a cheer at GMS's "game day" hosted by the Ouachita Baptist Lady Tiger basketball team. GMS students were welcomed by the OBU athletic department with grilled hot dogs and lunch fixings before helping cheer the Lady Tigers to a victory over the Christian Brothers Lady Bucs.

GMS students enjoy “game day” at OBU

Goza Middle School students spent their first Monday of 2013 experiencing a college basketball game thanks to a cooperative effort between Ouachita Baptist University and GMS.

GMS students arrived by bus shortly before lunch where OBU athletic director David Sharp, with help from many GMS and OBU staff members, welcomed students with grilled hot dogs and provided lunch fixings for every GMS student. Afterwards, GMS students filled Bill Vining Arena, replacing the spirit and support OBU's students would normally have provided since they were still on Christmas break.

GMS's state championship competitive cheerleading squad took to the baselines to lead the enthusiasm and performed one of their award winning routines, complete with a tumbling display, at halftime.

"David Sharp and Garry Crowder (Lady Tigers coach) make this happen,” GMS Principal Angela Garner said. “We appreciate OBU pairing up with our public schools and providing an opportunity to make sure all of our students are able to experience a lively college atmosphere. This is a good thing. It's really win-win for both schools.”

GMS students and staff cheered the OBU Lady Tigers to a 71-62 victory over the Christian Brothers Lady Bucs.

“This is a great opportunity to engage and interact with our community,” Sharp said. “We enjoy providing an event that these students can enjoy.”